POD HD500x ADVANCED guide

POD HD500x ADVANCED guide Rev A Electrophonic Limited Edition 2013 Line 6, Inc.

Table of Contents Overview...1 1 Home Views...1 1 Tuner Mode...1 3 Tap Tempo...1 4 Connections...1 4 POD HD500X Edit Software...1 5 System Setup...2 1 Accessing System Setup...2 1 Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options...2 1 Page 2, Setup: Utilities Options...2 3 Page 3, Setup: Input Options...2 3 Page 4, Setup: Output Options...2 7 Page 5, Setup: S/PDIF Output Options...2 9 Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options...2 10 Page 7, Setup: Variax Options...2 11 Page 8, James Tyler Variax Tuning Options...2 16 Page 9, Setup: L6 LINK Audio...2 17 Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control...2 18 Features & Functionality...3 1 FX Blocks...3 1 Amp Blocks...3 3 Mixer Block...3 3 Moving FX Blocks...3 4 Expression Pedal & Variax Knob Controller Assignment...3 6 FX & Amp Block Footswitch Assignment...3 9 Dynamic DSP...3 13

Set Lists & Presets...4 1 Working with Set Lists...4 1 Working with Presets...4 4 Saving Presets...4 6 FX Edit Mode...5 1 Accessing FX Edit Mode...5 1 FX Loop...5 4 Amp, Cab & Mic Models...6 1 Amp Model Positioning...6 1 Selecting Amp, Cab & Mic Models...6 3 Editing Amp Parameters...6 6 Amp & Cab Edit Display...6 6 Amp/Preamp Models...6 11 Cab Models...6 14 FX Models...7 1 Dynamics Models...7 1 Distortion Models...7 2 Modulation Models...7 3 Filter Models...7 4 Pitch Models...7 6 Preamp+EQ Models...7 8 Delay Models...7 10 Reverb Models...7 11 Volume/Pan & Wah Models...7 13 Looper Mode...8 1 Looper Footswitch Controls & Performance View...8 1 Looper Settings...8 5

USB Audio...9 1 The Line 6 USB Audio Driver...9 1 The Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices Panel...9 3 Mac - Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices...9 3 Windows - Line 6 Audio-MIDI Devices...9 9 Appendix A: Line 6 Monkey...A 1 Launch Line 6 Monkey... A 1 Line 6 Variax Updates... A 3 Appendix B: MIDI...B 1 MIDI Input & Out/Thru... B 1 Bank & Program Change Messages... B 3 Using POD HD500X as a MIDI Controller Device... B 5 Line 6, POD, DT50, DT25, Variax, James Tyler, StageSource, L6 LINK, CustomTone and Line 6 Monkey are trademarks of Line 6, Inc. All other product names, trademarks and artists names are the property of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with Line 6. Product names, images, and artists names are used solely to identify the products whose tones and sounds were studied during the Line 6 sound model development for this product. The use of these products, trademarks, images, and artists names does not imply any cooperation or endorsement. Copyright 2013 Line 6, Inc.

Overview Overview Welcome to the POD HD500X Advanced Guide. This guide contains in-depth details of the POD HD500X features and functionality. Please be sure to also read through your POD HD500X Pilot s Guide for basic info on POD HD500X and this Guide will take it from there! In this chapter, we ll present an overview of the main screens and features to get you started. 1 1 This Guide covers POD HD500X with Flash Memory version 1.01 (or later) installed. Please use Line 6 Monkey to check for and install the latest updates for your device - see Launch Line 6 Monkey on page A 1. Home Views SAVE PRESETS HOLD FOR SYSTEM & I/O VIEW The place to start is in one of the Home View screens. Press the VIEW button to rotate through the 3 available Home Views. While in any of these Home View screens, you can turn the PRESETS knob and call up a Preset in the current Setlist, or push the PRESETS knob to select from among other Set Lists! Signal Flow View The Signal Flow View displays all Amp & FX Blocks and their ordering for the current Preset. As you ll see in several of the following chapters, this is the screen where you ll select the desired Block to perform other actions, such as choose a new Amp or FX Model, edit its parameters, move its position, and more. Currently loaded Preset location and title Use the and Nav. Disc buttons to select the desired Block Parallel Paths A (upper) and B (lower) with Mixer Block FX Blocks within Pre position Amp Blocks FX Blocks within Post position The items within the Signal Flow View Looper The signal flow architecture of each Preset is comprised of 3 main sections where Amp & FX Blocks can be positioned: Pre, Post and parallel Paths A & B.

Overview At the bottom of the Signal Flow View screen, you ll see up to four parameters that are accessed using the Multi-function knobs 1-4. 1 2 Accessing parameters with the Multi-select Knobs These parameters are specific to the currently selected Block and allow you to choose new Models & edit parameters. Or, you can dive deeper in the Edit Mode and access additional settings in other screens, as covered in the following chapters. Performance View The Performance View screen displays the FX and/or Presets that are currently assigned to your POD HD500X footswitches. Footswitches FS5 - FS8 can be configured to either toggle FX On/Off, or to select Preset channels (see Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options on page 2 1). FX assignment for FS1-FS8 ABCD assignment for FS5-FS8 These FX assignments for FS1 - FS8 can be edited for each Preset (see FX & Amp Block Footswitch Assignment on page 3 9). When the Looper is active, the Performance View screen displays a set of Looper functions (see Looper Mode on page 8 1).

Overview Big User View This screen simply provides you with one BIG display of the currently loaded Preset number - convenient for dark stages! 1 3 The Big User View Tuner Mode To enter Tuner mode, press and hold the TAP button. A few options are available, adjusted using the Multi-function knobs. The Tuner screen Pluck an individual string on your guitar and you ll see the name of the note displayed. When the graphic bar is to the left of center, your string is flat; when it is to the right, your string is sharp. When the bar is within the center range, triangles will appear above and below it, indicating your string is in tune.

CONNECT TO L6 LINK ONLY Overview 1 4 Reference (Knob 1): If you d like to tune to a reference other than standard 440Hz, select from 425 to 455Hz. Audio (Knob 2): Select Mute to silence POD HD500X output while tuning, or select Bypass to hear your guitar dry. Press the TAP switch, or any other footswitch, to exit Tuner Mode. Tap Tempo Tap Tempo is the term we use to refer to the System Tempo value that is accessed via the TAP button on your POD HD500X device. Stomp rhythmically to set your Tap Tempo. Alternatively, you can set a numerical Tempo value within Setup (see Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options on page 2 10). This setting is saved per Preset. You ll see the LED on the TAP switch blink to indicate your current Tap Tempo BPM. Tempo-based FX (Modulation, Filter & Delay FX) that offer a Tempo Sync parameter can optionally be set to a note division of this Tap Tempo value. Connections CD/MP3 UNBALANCED OUTPUT BALANCED OUTPUT FX RETURN FX SEND PEDAL 2 GUITAR IN INPUT L/MONO R/MONO LEFT RIGHT PHONES AUX IN MIC LINE STOMP L/MONO RIGHT TRS STEREO VARIAX S/PDIF OUT INPUT MIDI OUT/THRU USB L6 LINK POWER MIC LEVEL 9VDC 2.5A Min Please refer to your POD HD500X Pilot s Guide for descriptions of the rear panel connections. You ll find more details on their specific uses within the following chapters as well!

Overview POD HD500X Edit Software Be sure to visit line6.com/software to download the Line 6 POD HD500X Edit software - the free patch editor/librarian for Mac and Windows computers. Using POD HD500X Edit and a USB connection you can easily create, audition, customize, backup/restore and save an unlimited number of Tone Presets for your device. You can even utilize POD HD500X Edit while simultaneously using the L6 LINK or MIDI connections! 1 5 The POD HD500X Edit application

System Setup System Setup In this chapter, we ll cover the options for configuring your POD HD500X system settings. Note that some System Setup options are global settings (they persist always, regardless of the current Preset) while others are saved individually per Preset, as noted in the following sections. You ll want to be sure to save your Preset after changing settings of the latter type in order to retain them. 2 1 Accessing System Setup To access the System Setup options, press and hold the VIEW button. Here you can configure several device functions, Input & Output settings and more. SAVE PRESETS HOLD FOR SYSTEM & I/O VIEW Use the Nav. Disc buttons to navigate through the several Setup pages. Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options

System Setup The top portion of the screen lists the Flash Memory and USB Firmware versions currently installed on your POD HD500X device. The lower portion of the screen offers four options, adjustable using the Multi-function Knobs 1-4. 2 2 Footswitch Mode (Knob 1): Configures the function of POD HD500X footswitches FS5 through FS8 for either Pedalboard Mode or Preset Mode (see Accessing Set Lists on page 4 1). This setting is global. Note that you can reference all current footswitch assignments in the Performance View screen, which will change its display according to the Footswitch Mode you choose here. See FX & Amp Block Footswitch Assignment on page 3 9. Amp Knobs Display (Knob 2): When set to On, allows the LCD screen to momentarily display the actual Amp Tone Knob values whenever adjusting any physical amp knob. This setting is global. Looper FS Display (Knob 3): When the LOOPER footswitch is toggled On to engage Looper Mode, the Performance View screen automatically changes to display Looper footswitch functions (see page 8 5). This setting is global. The two selections here offer the following behaviors when Looper Mode is active: All Views: Shows the Looper controls in the LCD regardless of the currently selected View. Performance View: Shows the Looper screen as the Performance View screen (and allows the 3 Home View screens to still be displayed when toggling the VIEW button). Note that the Looper display s icons represent what each footswitch will do when pressed, and not the function that the Looper is currently performing. Trails (Knob 4): When set to On, allows the echo repeats and/or decay of Delay and Reverb FX to continue when the Model is toggled Off. With the Trails option Off the decay is muted instantly when toggling the Model Off. This setting is saved per Preset. The FX Loop also utilizes Trails - bypassing the FX Loop with this feature enabled causes the Return to remain active while the Send is shut Off. The Trails feature does not provide a spillover of the FX decay when changing Presets.

System Setup Page 2, Setup: Utilities Options 2 3 The options at the bottom of the screen are as follows - all are global settings: LCD Contrast (Knob 1): Adjusts the screen s contrast. Tap Tempo LED (Knob 2): Choose On to have the LED light for the TAP footswitch flash to indicate the current Tap Tempo value. Choose Off to have it remain unlit. AC Frequency (Knob 3): All HD Amp Models include simulation of AC hum, typical of the AC Vacuum Tube Heater component - an important part of the tonality of a tube amplifier. Set the AC Rate to match that of the USA (60Hz) or UK (50Hz) frequency for authenticity. (This setting may be subtle depending on the current Amp Model settings, and may be more apparent when synchronizing this setting with the AC rate of any tube amplifier that POD HD500X may be plugged into.) Page 3, Setup: Input Options The Inputs Setup page allows you to select which of the device s audio inputs are used as the source sort of like a built-in, programmable patchbay. There is also a control which adjusts the Guitar input impedance.

System Setup 2 4 Input 1 and Input 2 Source (Knobs 1 & 2) - Select the physical input(s) that you want to be the source fed into the signal path. Note that you can choose different Sources to independently feed each signal path, or choose Same to feed a common Source into both paths. The Variax and Variax Mag Input Source options are provided for Line 6 Variax guitars when connected into the POD HD500X Variax Digital Input (VDI). With a James Tyler Variax (JTV), the Variax Input Source receives the Model or Magnetic signal, depending on the JTV s Model switch settings.* The Variax Mag Input Source receives only the JTV s Magnetic Pickup signal. *Note: With a JTV in use, the Variax Input Source selection also recalls whether you were using mags or models per preset, allowing you to pick up exactly where you left off no need for manual selection or input changes. If you own a first-generation Variax instrument, it is recommended to choose the Variax Input Source option. Please also refer to your Variax documentation. Guitar In-Z (Knob 3) - Select the input impedance of the Guitar input. This feature affects tone and feel because your guitar pickups are being loaded as they would be by an effect pedal or a tube amplifier. Note: The Guitar In-Z setting affects the GUITAR IN input only. Please see the Impedance Ratings table at the end of this section to reference the input impedance of each individual model. The Auto option dynamically sets the input impedance to match the input impedance of the very first Amp or FX model in your POD HD signal chain.

System Setup Or, you can manually select from a variety of impedance values from low to high (22k, 32k, 70k, 90k, 136k, 230k, 1M, or 3.5M). A lower value will typically result in some high frequency attenuation, lower gain and overall softer feel. A higher value provides full frequency response, higher gain and overall tighter feel. Inputs Setup (Knob 4) - Determines whether the other 3 options in this Inputs screen are applied per preset, or globally. Preset - Recalling a preset will load the Input 1 Source, Input 2 Source and Guitar In-Z parameter settings as last saved with the individual preset. Global - Once the Global option is selected here, the other three Input options values on this Setup page (Input Sources 1 and 2, and Guitar In-Z) are utilized globally, regardless of their values that are saved with each individual preset. The Input values you choose on this Setup page are then retained independently for the Inputs Setup - Global option. When you change the Inputs Setup back to Preset, the Input options values saved with each individual preset are once again utilized. 2 5 Note: Saving a preset while this option is set to Global will write the current global Inputs and Guitar In-Z values to the individual, saved preset. Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms) Amps & Preamps All Amp & Preamp Models 1M Distortion FX Screamer 230k Color Drive 136k Buzz Saw 230k Facial Fuzz 22k Jumbo Fuzz 90k Fuzz Pi 22k Octave Fuzz 230k All Other Distortion Models 1M

System Setup 2 6 Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms) Dynamics FX All Dynamics Models 1M Modulation FX Dual Phaser 230k U-Vibe 90k Analog Chorus 22k All Other Modulation Models 1M Filter FX All Filter Models 1M Pitch FX All Pitch Models 1M Delay FX Multi Head 22k Analog Echo 230k Analog w/mod 90k All Other Delay Models 1M Preamp + EQ FX All Preamp & EQ Models 1M Reverb FX All Reverb Models 1M Wah FX Weeper 90k All Other Wah Models 1M Volume & Pan FX All Volume and Pan Models 1M

System Setup Amp & FX Model - Guitar Input Impedance Ratings Model Guitar Input Impedance (Ohms) FX Loop FX Loop 1M About Source Input Signal Routing: 2 7 It is important to note how POD HD500X actually routes Source Inputs 1 and 2 through Amp & FX Blocks that are positioned Pre position. The following behaviors apply: In a configuration with no Amp or FX Blocks in Pre, Input 1 is fed only to Path A and Input 2 only to Path B. Therefore, this is the best configuration if you want to retain discrete Input Sources into Paths A & B. Placing an Amp Block or an active mono FX Model in Pre results in a mix-down of Input Sources 1 & 2, feeding the same, combined signal into each Path A & B. Placing a Stereo FX Model in Pre results in the left channel FX output being fed to Path A and its right output to Path B.* The Mixer Block s Volume and Pan options provide independent control for Path A & B outputs before they are fed through any Blocks positioned Post the Mixer. By setting Input 2 to Same, this effectively routes your Input Source to both stereo Paths A & B (which is how you can feed one guitar input into two Amp Models and/or parallel FX, for example). *Please also see Model Types and Mono/Stereo Signal Routing on page 3 5 for more about how mono and stereo FX affect your signal chain. Page 4, Setup: Output Options The Mode setting on this page allows you to configure the type of signal fed to your POD HD500X analog outputs to optimize for direct recording versus connecting to an external amplifier. Note that this Mode setting affects the signal fed to several POD HD500X outputs: Balanced, Unbalanced & Phones outputs as well as USB Record Send & L6 LINK audio outputs.

System Setup 2 8 Knob 1 selects the Output Mode. This is a global setting. Studio/Direct: Typically the best option when connecting Direct to a mixing console or recording device. This signal includes Studio Cab Models, Mic Model and an AIR convolution to best emulate a mic ed amp within a room. Combo and Stack settings: Optimizes your tone for connecting to an external amplifier. The signal includes Live Cab Models,with no Mic Model or AIR convolution, with a special EQ curve added for each. Combo Front & Stack Front: For connecting into the front input of a typical combo amp or amp head + external cab, respectively. When choosing either of these Modes, you ll see the following additional options for further tone shaping: Lows (Knob 2): Attenuates the low frequencies. Focus (Knob 3): Increases the overall midrange. Highs (Knob 4): Attenuates the high frequencies. Combo Power Amp & Stack Power Amp: For connecting to the power amp of a combo or head amp. TIP: When using the Combo or Stack options and connecting into a tube amplifier, we also recommend that you choose a Preamp Model from the Amp Model menu (rather than one of the Full Amp Models). HD Preamp Models include no power amp emulation, making them typically better suited for this connection. That said, there is no wrong choice! PODs have always been about flexibility... Check out all the possibilities and decide which Models work best for your tone!

System Setup Page 5, Setup: S/PDIF Output Options 2 9 These options are strictly for configuring the signal fed to the S/PDIF OUT. Use this 24- bit digital connection when connecting to the S/PDIF input of other devices, such as a computer audio interface or digital mixing console. Note: When connecting to another digital device, it is best to clock the external device to follow POD HD500X to maintain proper synchronization - please see your digital device s documentation for its digital clock features. S/PDIF Output (Knob 1): Selects the type of output mode signal: Match Outputs (uses the setting as configured on the Setup:Outputs screen - see page 2 8) or Dry Input (your Source Input signal with no Amp, Cab, Mic, E.R. or FX processing applied). Sample Rate (Knob 2): Selects the sample rate: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz or 96kHz. When connecting to another device s S/PDIF input, always be sure to set both units to utilize the same sample rate. S/P Level (Knob 3): Increases the amplitude of the S/PDIF signal: 0 db.

System Setup Page 6, MIDI/Tempo Options 2 10 MIDI Channel (Knob 1): Sets the System MIDI Channel that POD HD500X utilizes for both receiving and sending MIDI communication via the MIDI DIN Input/Output. Choose any individual Channel 1-16, or Omni for all Channels.* This is a global setting. *Note: The MIDI Channel selected here also affects the MIDI Channel settings utilized by L6 LINK - see Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control on page 2 18. MIDI Out/Thru (Knob 2): Allows the MIDI Out DIN to be switched between a MIDI Output versus MIDI Output + Thru. Tempo Sync (Knob 3): The Speed or Time parameters of all tempo-based FX (Modulation, Pitch & Delays) can optionally be set to a note value to follow the (Knob 4) Tempo BPM value. This Tempo Sync option is a global setting that allows you to choose whether the FX follow the Tap Tempo as a per-preset value or globally. Preset: Tempo settings are saved and recalled on a per Preset basis. Global: Tempo information stored within any Preset is ignored. When saving a Preset while this option is set to Global, the current tempo value will be saved with the Preset. Tempo (Knob 4): Enter in a specific Tap Tempo for your current Preset (as opposed to stomping rhythmically on the TAP footswitch). This value is saved individually per Preset.

System Setup Page 7, Setup: Variax Options 2 11 Setup Page 7 - No Variax connected Setup Page 7 - James Tyler Variax connected As illustrated above, Setup page 7 will display additional, model-specific options when a Variax instrument is connected to the POD HD500X VARIAX (VDI) input. The specific Variax family and its firmware version are displayed at the top right of the screen when the Variax is connected. Available options and behaviors displayed will differ depending on the Variax type and model you have connected, as described in the following sections. With any Variax connected to the VDI input, the Knob 1 option functionality is as follows. Variax Control (Knob 1): Choose whether you want to assign all your Variax settings on this Setup pg 7 screen on a per Preset basis or Globally.* When set to Preset, all the parameter settings shown on the Variax Setup screens (Setup pages 7 & 8) are saved and recalled individually per POD HD500X preset. You ll see additional options in the screen when you have a Variax connected and choose Preset. When set to Global, this provides complete manual control over all Variax functions, regardless what Variax settings you may have saved within the POD HD500X presets. *Note: For a James Tyler Variax (JTV) this will also determine whether the guitar s Mag/Model switch selection (as heard through the Variax Input Source option) will be recalled per Preset or Globally. Also note that the Setup Pg 8 - JTV Tuning Options are not affected by this Variax Control setting. The Tuning settings are saved per Preset.

System Setup James Tyler Variax All James Tyler Variax (JTV) family guitars are supported. Also see Page 8, James Tyler Variax Tuning Options on page 2 16 for even more JTV options! 2 12 Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2 11. Model (Knob 2): Selects the Variax Model & pickup position setting. Choose the Don t Force option if you prefer to not have the JTV local Model changed by the Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets. Local Control (Knob 3): Determines whether the JTV Volume and Tone knobs, and/or toggle switch are to remain active or be locked. When locked, the knob/ switch no longer controls the JTV guitar s local functions for the Modeled output of the guitar.* *Note: When utilizing the Magnetic output mode on the JTV guitar, only the Volume knob is Locked by any of the Local Control - Locked settings. For the Magnetic output, the Tone and Pickup switch functions remain unlocked even when set to Locked via Knob 3. This feature allows you to freely use the JTV Tone knob or Pickup selector switch when the JTV is in the Magnetic pickup output mode, while keeping the Modeled settings still locked if you prefer these Modeled settings to remain unchanged when you toggle back to Modeled output mode! Also note that when any of these JTV controls are locked, changing the JTV guitar s Model Encoder knob automatically always resets all to unlocked. James Tyler is a registered trademark of James Tyler Guitars.

System Setup Setting the JTV Volume and/or Tone knobs to Locked can be desirable when the knobs are assigned to remotely control any POD HD500X Amp or FX parameters - see Expression Pedal & Variax Knob Controller Assignment on page 3 6 for details. Tone (Knob 4): Allows the JTV Tone knob value to be saved with the current preset, or applied Globally, per the Variax Control (Knob 1) setting. 2 13 Variax Electric All first generation Variax Electric Guitars are supported. Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2 11. Model (Knob 2): Selects the Variax Model & pickup position setting. Choose the Don t Force option if you prefer to not have the Variax guitar s model changed by the Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets. Local Control (Knob 3): This feature is not applicable for first generation Variax instruments, therefore, no options are available. Tone (Knob 4): Allows the Variax guitar s Tone knob value to be saved with the current preset, if desired.

System Setup 2 14 Variax Acoustic 700 For a Variax Acoustic Guitar, you ll see two Setup pages, 7a and 7b, to accommodate the additional controls. Multifunction Knobs 1, 2 & 3 are common controls, shown on both Setup pages. Knob 4 is unique on each page. Variax Control (Knob 1): See page 2 11. Model (Knob 2 - pgs. 7a & b): Selects the Variax Acoustic Model. Choose the Don t Force option if you prefer to not have the JTV local Model changed by the Model value saved within the POD HD500X presets. Local Control (Knob 3 - pgs. 7a & b): This feature is not applicable for Variax Acoustic, therefore, no options are available. Mic Position (Knob 4 - pg 7a): Changing this value simulates changing the mic position on the acoustic from closer to further from the soundhole. Comp (Knob 4 on pg 7b): Selects the amount of compression effect applied to the Variax Acoustic tone.

System Setup Variax Bass 700 & 705 For a Variax Bass, you ll see three Setup pages, 7a, 7b & 7c to accommodate all the controls on the Bass. Multifunction Knobs 1, 2 & 3 on all pages are common controls. Knob 4 on each page is unique. 2 15 Variax Control (Knob 1 - pgs. 7a, b & c): See page 2 11. Model (Knob 2 - pgs. 7a, b & c): Selects the Variax Bass Guitar Model. Choose the Don t Force option if you prefer to not have the Variax Bass Model changed by the Model value saved within any POD HD500X preset. Blend (Knob 4 - pg. 7a): Adjust this controls the balance between a neck and bridge pickup tone on the Bass. Bass (Knob 4 - pg. 7b): Adjusts the amount of bass frequencies. Treble (Knob 4 - pg. 7c): Adjusts the amount of treble frequencies.

System Setup Page 8, James Tyler Variax Tuning Options The Page 8 Setup screen offers Tuning options for James Tyler Variax guitars.* These allow you to configure and edit alternate tunings for your connected JTV guitar, which can be saved right along with any POD HD500X preset! 2 16 *Note: This tuning functionality is only available for James Tyler Variax family guitars. If no JTV (or any first-generation Variax) is connected, this screen offers no accessible options. Variax Tuning (Knob 1): Choose Don t Force if you do not want the POD HD500X preset to affect the local tuning on your JTV guitar. Choose Custom to create a tuning of your own, which can be saved with the current preset. String Select (Knob 3): Select the desired guitar string, 1 though 6, for which you want to change the pitch. Note Offset (Knob 4): Choose the amount of half-steps, positive or negative, for which you want to raise or lower the pitch of the selected string. The resulting note will then be displayed on the tuning graphic at the top of the screen. For example, in the screenshot above, we ve altered the low E string down two half-steps to a D note.* *Note: The offset value will always be accurate - the note labels displayed assume the guitar is tuned to standard pitch (E, A, D, G, B, E), with the A using a 440Hz reference pitch.

System Setup Page 9, Setup: L6 LINK Audio 2 17 These options configure the POD HD500X audio signal fed to up to four Line 6 DT50 / DT25 amplifiers using the L6 Link connection.* These settings are saved per Preset. *Note: For details on using the POD HD500X L6 LINK connection with DT amplifiers, please see the additional documentation available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/. Amp 1 - Amp 4 - Select the audio signal you want fed to each DT amplifier: Choose the main output signal (Left, Right, Left/Right summed). Choose the output of one specific Amp Model (Amp Model A or Amp Model B). These options configure the POD HD500X audio signal fed to up to four Line 6 DT Series amplifiers and/or StageSource speakers using the L6 LINK connection. The settings for each of the 4 Amps are saved per Preset. Whenever one or more DT amps/stagesource speakers are connected to the POD HD500X - L6 LINK output, you ll see each identified on the screen, such as the DT50 appears as connected in the #1 Amp position in the above screenshot (note that these are indicators labels only and not stored per Preset). 1-4 Amp Options - Select the specific POD HD audio signal you want fed to each L6 LINK-connected DT amp/stagesource speaker. Note that the L6 LINK audio signal fed to each amp is mono. Choose Left, Right or Left/Right (summed to mono) to send the main POD HD output signal. Choose the output of one or two specific POD HD Amp Models - Amp Model A, Amp Model B, or both Amp Model A/B.

System Setup 2 18 Choose Mute to silence any connected DT amp/stagesource speaker. This is handy, for example, if you are L6 LINK-connected to both a DT amp and StageSource speaker.* You can save some POD HD Presets with the StageSource set to Mute to allow an electric guitar tone to be heard through DT amp only - and other Presets with the DT amp set to Mute for an acoustic tone to be heard from the StageSource speaker only. Even better, if you use a Line 6 Variax, these electric & acoustic guitar settings can be saved with your POD Preset as well! *Note: It is necessary to always place the StageSource speaker(s) last in the L6 LINK signal chain (e.g. - POD HD500X > DT50 > StageSource L3). For more about using the L6 LINK connection, DT Series amps & StageSource speakers, please see the additional documentation available at http://line6.com/support/manuals/. Page 10, Setup: L6 LINK Control These options allow you to dictate how up to four connected Line 6 DT50 or DT25 amplifiers each follow the POD HD500X Amp Models & settings. Parameters 1-4 correspond to L6 LINK connected DT amplifiers 1-4, respectively. Each DT amplifier can be set independently to follow either the current Preset s Amp Model A or Amp Model B. The DT amplifier automatically configures its power amp Topology settings to match the selected Amp Model A or B. The DT amp controls are also synced to the selected Amp Model A or B. Alternatively, you can select a MIDI Channel to set the DT amp s MIDI communication channel. This effectively sets the respective DT amp to utilize its own internal Amp Model (rather than the POD HD500X Amp Model), and syncs its front panel controls with other DT amps that are set to the same MIDI Channel. *Note: These L6 LINK Control settings are for DT Series amplifiers only and ignored by any connected Line 6 StageSource speakers, which do not respond to MIDI CC messages.

Features & Functionality Features & Functionality Ready to dive deeper? In this chapter, we ll go into more detail on the major features & functionality offered on POD HD500X. FX Blocks For each Preset there are always a total of 8 FX Blocks, each capable of loading any FX Model, (or the FX Loop - see next section). When in the Signal Flow View screen, select any FX Block and you ll see options at the bottom of the screen, adjustable using the Multi-Function Knobs 1-4. 3 1 The Signal Flow View with an FX Block selected Knob 1 - Model Type: Select from among the FX Model categories. To load no effect in the selected Block, choose None. You ll see the Block then appear Null, as shown below. A Null FX Block can still be moved and loaded with a new Model at any time. Setting unneeded FX Blocks to None is a great way to minimize your tone s DSP usage (see Dynamic DSP on page 3 13). FX Blocks with the Model set to None Knob 2 - FX Model: Choose the desired Model from the Model Type list.

Features & Functionality Knob 3 - FX Parameters: Choose from up to 5 adjustable parameters. Alternatively, double-press the ENTER button to access all the Model s parameters in one screen - see FX Edit Mode on page 5 1. Knob 4 - Parameter Value: Adjusts the value for the currently selected parameter. Each FX Block also offers the following features: 3 2 On/Off: Toggle the FX Block On or Off by pressing the ENTER button once. When Off, your signal flows through the FX Block unprocessed. Move FX Position: Each FX Block can be moved throughout signal chain, providing complete routing flexibility. Place any FX Model before the Amp ( Pre ), after the Amp ( Post ), or within one of the parallel Paths A & B - see Amp Model Positioning on page 6 1 for details. Saved Per Preset: All FX Block positions, their loaded FX Models and all FX parameter values within the tone are saved with each Preset. FX Loop For any one of the 8 FX Blocks, you can load the FX Loop rather than an FX Model. This allows you to position the POD HD500X hardware FX Loop anywhere you like within the current signal path - even within one of the parallel Paths A or B! The Signal Flow View with the FX Loop selected Note that it is necessary to set one of the FX Blocks within your Preset to the FX Loop before you ll hear the signal fed through your SEND & RETURN device connections. Access options for the FX Loop at the bottom of the Signal Flow View, or in the Edit Mode screen. You can also toggle the FX Loop On or Off by pressing the ENTER button once. The FX Loop s position and all its parameter values are saved per Preset. Please also see FX Loop on page 5 4.

Features & Functionality Amp Blocks A single Amp Block can be placed in the Pre or Post signal flow positions, or within parallel Path A. Or, two Amps can be used if positioned within the Paths A & B, as shown below. Much like FX Blocks, Amp Blocks can be toggled On/Off and include several editable parameters. But there s quite a bit more available for Amps as well, so please refer to the dedicated chapter Amp, Cab & Mic Models on page 6 1 for details! 3 3 A Preset with two Amp Blocks Mixer Block The Mixer is permanently positioned at the end of the parallel Paths A & B and provides individual Level and Pan controls for each Paths output before fed to the Post position. When the Mixer is selected in the Signal Flow View, its four parameters are available at the bottom of the screen, accessible using the Multi-function Knobs 1-4. The Signal Flow View with the Mixer Block selected, showing its 4 parameters

Features & Functionality Volume A (Knob 1): Controls the volume level of the Path A output. 0 db is unity gain. Volume B (Knob 2): Controls the volume level of the Path B output. 0 db is unity gain. Pan A (Knob 3): Adjusts the left/right stereo balance of the Path A output. Pan B (Knob 4): Adjusts the left/right stereo balance of the Path B output. 3 4 Moving FX Blocks Any of the 8 FX Blocks can be moved throughout your tone s signal flow, providing tremendous routing flexibility. To move any FX Block, start within the Signal Flow View and select the FX Block to be moved. Press the MOVE button and you ll see the selected FX Block appear raised to indicate it is now moveable. ENTER AMP & FX ON / OFF DBL PRESS TO ASSIGN CTL MOVE Pressing the Move button to reposition an FX Block The FX Block can now be moved as follows: Use the Nav. Disc buttons to move the FX Block to the desired position. Move the FX Block into either Path A or B, and place it before or after an Amp Model within the path. Use the Nav. Disc buttons to move the FX Block to the opposite path. This allows you to run your effect in parallel and blend the individual Path A & B outputs using the Mixer s Level & Pan options! Once the FX Block is in the desired position, press the MOVE button again to drop it into place. Amp Blocks can be moved into fixed positions within the Pre or Post signal path areas, or within the Paths A & B - see Amp Model Positioning on page 6 1. The Looper can also be selected and moved either to the start ( Pre ) or end ( Post ) of the signal flow - see Looper Mode on page 8 1.

Features & Functionality Model Types and Mono/Stereo Signal Routing It is important to note that some Models (all EQs, Wahs & Volume, and some Modulations, Filters, Pitches and Delays, as well as the FX Loop) preserve a stereo output within the signal chain, while others (all Dynamics, Distortions, all Amps & Preamps, and other various Models) are mono FX and do not. The POD HD500X Inputs 1 & 2 are fed into the signal chain as stereo (see Page 3, Setup: Input Options on page 2 3). Therefore, wherever a mono FX or Amp Model is inserted, the Left & Right channels of this stereo signal is mono-ized and heard as a two-channel mono signal at the Model s output. To follow are a few examples: 3 5 Ping Pong Delay No mono-output FX or Amp follows Delay As shown above, if you place the Ping Pong Delay (a stereo-output FX Model) after any other FX and/or Amp Models, you ll hear its delay repeats bounce back and forth between your Left and Right outputs. Ping Pong Delay Ping Pong Delay A Distortion (mono) FX Model follows Delay An Amp Model Follows Delay, within same Path If you place the Ping Pong Delay immediately before a mono FX Model (as shown above, left) or Amp Model within the same Path (shown above, right), you ll hear its delays mono-ized, equally through both the Left and Right outputs. The FX Loop is capable of stereo, just like any stereo-output FX Model, provided that you utilize a stereo cabling configuration from the SEND jack, through your pedals/rack devices, and back into the RETURN jacks.

Features & Functionality 3 6 The above rules also apply within each of the parallel Paths A and B, since these are each stereo signal paths as well. The Mixer Block offers Pan controls to independently adjust the stereo balance of each of these Paths before they are fed into the first Post FX (or Amp Block, if the Amp is placed here), immediately following the Mixer. Please also see Amp Model Positioning on page 6 1 for additional signal flow information. Expression Pedal & Variax Knob Controller Assignment POD HD500X includes two Pedal Modes, EXP 1 and EXP 2 for the on-board Pedal, each of which can be assigned to any FX Model or FX Loop parameter, for endless control possibilities.* Or, when an Expression Pedal is connected to the PEDAL 2 input on the back of POD HD500X, the on-board Pedal controls EXP 1 and Pedal 2 controls EXP 2. The EXP 1 and EXP 2 Pedal Modes can each be assigned to control independent FX parameters. These EXP 1 & EXP 2 assignments and all settings made here are saved per Preset. *Note that when you add a Wah FX Model to your tone, the Position parameter for the Wah is automatically assigned to EXP 1. Likewise, when adding a Volume or Pan FX Model, its Position parameter is automatically assigned to EXP 2. This will result in multiple items assigned to these EXP Pedals if you already have existing Pedal assignments. For all Factory Presets that already include a Wah, Volume or Pan, these are typically already assigned as well. You can change these Pedal assignments, and/or create your own for other FX parameters - read on! EXP 1 and EXP 2 When no additional Pedal is connected to the PEDAL 2 input, the on-board Pedal s Toe Switch will toggle between the control of Pedal Modes EXP 1 and EXP 2. The red EXP 1 and green EXP 2 LEDs illuminate to indicate the current Pedal Mode. (It is also possible to manually assign other functions to the Toe Switch - see Using the EXP Pedal Toe Switch on page 3 11.) EXP 1 and EXP 2 with Pedal 2 Connected CD/MP3 UNBALANCED OUTPUT BALANCED OUTPUT FX RETURN FX SEND PEDAL 2 GUITAR IN INPUT L/MONO R/MONO LEFT RIGHT PHONES AUX IN MIC LINE STOMP L/MONO RIGHT TRS STEREO Optionally, you can connect a 2nd Expression Pedal (such as a Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal) to the PEDAL 2 input. With a Pedal 2 connected, the on-board Pedal controls only EXP 1, and Pedal 2 controls only EXP 2. Whenever MIC LEVEL a Pedal 2 is connected, you ll see the EXP 1 & EXP 2 LEDs both lit. VARIAX

Features & Functionality Variax Knobs as Controllers It is also possible to assign the Volume and/or Tone knob of any Line 6 Variax guitar to control any POD HD500X Amp or FX parameter. Note that when assigning a Variax knob to remotely control a POD HD500X parameter, you might find it preferable to Lock the knob s Local Control option, so that it does not simultaneously affect the Variax guitar s Volume or Tone - please see Page 7, Setup: Variax Options on page 2 11 for instructions. Controlling Amp & FX Parameters 3 7 Configuring the Expression Pedal and Variax Knob controller assignments is done within the Controller Assign screen. In the Signal Flow View, select the Amp or FX Block for which you d like to create a controller assignment, then double-press the MOVE button. For our example, we ll select our Delay FX block in the Signal Flow View and configure it to be controlled via the EXP-1 Pedal: Tip! Expression Pedal and Knob Controllers are capable of driving up to 50+ POD HD parameters simultaneously, making it possible to morph between sounds with a single Exp. Pedal or Knob move. Simply repeat the following steps to assign a common Controller to multiple parameters within the same Preset. ENTER AMP & FX ON / OFF DBL PRESS TO ASSIGN CTL MOVE The Controller Assign screen is then displayed specifically for the selected Model. In our example, it is the Digital Delay W/Modulation.

Features & Functionality Use the Multi-function Knobs 1-4 to configure the controller assignment options. 3 8 The Controller Assign screen Parameter (Knob 1): Select the parameter for the current Model that you want to control.* In our example, we ll choose the Mix parameter. Controller (Knob 2): Select the controller that you want to assign to the parameter. Choose Off to have no assignment, or choose EXP 1, EXP 2, Variax Vol or Variax Tone. Minimum Value (Knob 3): Set the parameter value you d like for the Pedal s heel or Knob s minimum position. Maximum Value (Knob 4): Set the parameter value you d like for the Pedal s toe or Knob s minimum position. * Note: As stated on page 3 6, when adding any Wah or Volume/Pan FX Model to your tone, their Position parameters are automatically assigned to the EXP 1 & EXP 2. These Wah & Volume/Pan EXP assignments will remain in addition to other parameters you assign, resulting in your Pedal controlling multiple parameters. Be sure to remove any unwanted Model s EXP assignment in the Controller Assign screen. To creat a controller assignment to an FX Loop parameter, simply select the FX Loop Block within the Signal Flow View and go to the Controller Assign screen, as described above.

Features & Functionality The Controller Assign options for the FX Loop Note: When a Controller is assigned to any FX Model parameter, manually editing this parameter s value will result in changing the Controller s MIN or MAX value. For example, if the EXP-1 Pedal Controller is assigned to a Wah FX Model s Position parameter, select the Wah Model, go to its Edit View screen, and select the Position parameter. If you turn multifunction knob #4 when the Pedal is near the heel position, the MIN value is adjusted. If you turn the knob when the Pedal is near the Toe position, the MAX value is adjusted. 3 9 FX & Amp Block Footswitch Assignment Each of the FS1 through FS8 footswitches, as well as the Exp Pedal s Toe Switch can be configured to toggle any of the FX or Amp Blocks On/Off. You can reference the current Preset s FX footswitch assignments by pressing the VIEW button to display the Performance View screen. The assignments for FS1-FS8 will differ depending on your current Setup - FS Mode setting (see Page 1, Setup: Utilities Options on page 2 1): FX assignment for FS1-FS8 ABCD assignment for FS5-FS8 Note that when Looper Mode is active, the Performance View displays a set of Looper-specific footswitch functions, as covered in Looper Footswitch Controls & Performance View on page 8 1.

Features & Functionality Assigning an FX or Amp Block to a Footswitch From the Signal Flow View, select the FX or Amp Block that you want assigned to one of your footswitches. As an example, we ll select the Delay FX Block. Then Press and hold the ENTER button to display the Footswitch Assign screen. 3 10 ENTER AMP & FX ON / OFF DBL PRESS TO ASSIGN CTL MOVE Select the desired Amp or FX block, then press and hold the ENTER button The Footswitch Assign screen, with a Delay FX Model selected Use Multi-function Knob 1 to select the footswitch to which you want this FX Block assigned - choose FS1 through FS8, the EXP Toe Switch, or None to remove the Block s assignment. The following behaviors apply: If a footswitch already has an FX or Amp block assigned: The existing Block remains assigned, and selecting this footswitch additionally assigns your new Block. When referencing the Performance View, you ll see the footswitch display a Multi graphic to indicate this. You can configure 2 or more parameters to the same footswitch to toggle them On/Off simultaneously - or, have one toggle On while another Toggles Off!

Features & Functionality Indicates multiple Blocks assigned to a footswitch TIP: To reference current footswitch assignments, when in the Footswitch Assign screen, use the Nav. Disc buttons to select each Block, and look at the Knob 1 setting for each at the bottom of the screen. 3 11 When a footswitch has no Block assigned: You ll see the N/A graphic displayed in the Performance View for the respective footswitch. Using the EXP Pedal Toe Switch Indicates no Blocks assigned to a footswitch As noted in Expression Pedal & Variax Knob Controller Assignment on page 3 6, when adding a Wah or Volume/Pan Model to your tone, their Position parameters are automatically assigned to the EXP 1 and EXP 2 Pedal Modes. Most Factory Presets already include this Wah/Volume switching pre-configured for you. But the Toe Switch assignment is not set automatically for newly added FX Models, so here is how to set this up manually. With the Wah Model selected, go to the FS Assign screen and assign its FX Block to the EXP TOE SWITCH, following the instructions above. This allows the Wah to be toggled On/Off via the pedal Toe Switch.

Features & Functionality 3 12 Assigning an FX Block to the on-board pedal s Toe Switch Further, if you have a different FX parameter (such as the Volume - Position) being controlled by the opposite EXP Pedal Mode, you ll likely find it useful to have the Toe Switch toggle both the FX On/Off alternately, so that only the desired Model is active while being controlled. For example, say you have a Preset where the Wah is controlled by EXP 1, and the Volume by EXP 2: Note: If you have an additional Pedal connected to PEDAL 2, you may not want to use the following configuration, since the Wah and Volume are already controlled by the two Pedals individually. Click the EXP TOE SWITCH switch so that the red EXP 1 LED is lit. In the Signal Flow View, select the Volume FX block and toggle it Off using the ENTER button. You should now see the Wah On and the Volume Off. Wah in On Volume is Off Repeat the previous Footswitch Assign steps for both the Wah and the Volume, assigning each to the EXP TOE SWITCH. Now whenever you click the EXP TOE SWITCH to EXP 1 for this Preset, the Volume is switched Off and the Wah is switch On and is controlled by the Pedal - and vice versa when switching to EXP 2. Be sure to save to retain these settings with your Preset!

Features & Functionality Dynamic DSP We ve offered up a whole lot of sound possibilities in POD HD500X, and it can take some serious Digital Signal Processing (DSP) to run these goodies. Rather than limit your creative potential with fewer Models or signal routing options, we chose to implement a Dynamic DSP system, which dynamically assigns DSP resources to accommodate your tone configurations. When creating a tone that utilizes several heavy-hitting DSP Models, it is possible to surpass the amount of processing power available. In these cases, you ll see the DSP LIMIT REACHED indicator appear, and the current Model is bypassed to allow your tone to remain active. 3 13 DSP Limit alert is temporarily displayed Currently selected Model is automatically bypassed, with DSP message shown here Signal Flow View - displaying DSP Limit alert In the above example, trying to change the Model for a 2nd Amp placed our tone over the DSP limit. Therefore, the DSP LIMIT REACHED message is shown temporarily, and the Amp B Model we selected is automatically bypassed, as indicated by the DSP Over message. When the DSP Limit is reached, you have a few options to free up DSP resources. Try using different Amp Models. Some of the HD Amp Models require more DSP power than others, so try switching to a different Amp Model. Use only one Amp Model rather than two. Try toggling Amp and/or FX Models Off or set the Block s Model to None, (see FX Blocks on page 3 1). Some FX types, such as Pitch Shifters and Reverbs, utilize DSP more heavily. Note: Setting an Amp or FX Block to None reduces the Block s DSP usage more substantially than toggling its Model to Off. Once you re happy with your customized tone, save it so you can recall it later.

Set Lists & Presets Set Lists & Presets This chapter covers all you need to know about working with Set Lists and Presets to manage your POD HD500X Tones. Be sure to also check out the free Line 6 POD HD500X Edit software. It can be used to create, customize & manage an unlimited library of POD HD500X Set Lists & Presets right on your Mac or Windows computer! See POD HD500X Edit Software on page 1 5. 4 1 Working with Set Lists POD HD500X stores 64 Presets within each of its 8 Set Lists. The big idea here is that you can load any one of these Set Lists to then gain access to any of its Preset locations - where you can save your complete settings to, or load a Preset from. Accessing Set Lists Push the PRESETS knob to display the Set Lists screen. SAVE PRESETS HOLD FOR SYSTEM & I/O VIEW The Set Lists screen DT Series Amp Owners... The L6 LINK<->DT Set List is filled with Presets specifically designed for use with POD HD500X connected to a DT Series amp utilizing the L6 LINK connection. Also, the Presets within this Set List that include LVM within their titles are designed for use with your DT Series amp set to its Low Volume Mode.